1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with some stage of breast cancer in their lifetime. That number is staggering, and even with so many people actively committed to fighting breast cancer, either by volunteering their time or donating to help fund breast cancer research and awareness, there is still a great deal of work to do.

The most important thing everyone can do in the fight against breast cancer is to perform regular self breast exams. By being aware of our ever-changing bodies, it is easier to catch breast cancer early and save lives.

We have some great tips from Babeland on what you need to know to perform an effective self breast exam. It only takes 10-15 minutes, and by paying attention to your breasts and how they change throughout different times of the month, it is easier to detect when something may be wrong sooner.

How to Perform a Self Breast Exam

• Lay down and place a pillow under your right shoulder, and your right arm under your head.
• Using the three middle fingers of your left hand, massage your right breast with the pads of your fingers. Check the entire breast for any lumps or abnormalities. You can move in a circular motion, or up and down — just make sure you use the same motion every month.
• Continue the motion, extending to the outside of the breast, and to your underarm.
• Repeat on left side.
• Next, repeat exam standing up, with one arm behind your shoulder as you examine each breast. Standing or sitting up allows you to feel the outside of the breast more accurately.
• For added precaution, stand in front of a mirror and squeeze each nipple. Look for any discharge.
• Take note of any dimpling, redness, or swelling.
• If you notice anything unusual, contact your doctor as soon as possible. It may be nothing to worry about, but it’s better to know than to wonder.

Self Breast Exam Tips

• You can do a portion of the exam in the shower. Incorporating it into a normal activity can make it easier to remember to do, and less of a time constraint.
• Do the self breast exam every month at the same time. Menstruating women should perform their exam a few days after their period. Women taking oral contraceptives should do the exam on the first day starting a new pack of pills. Remember to mark your calendar to remind yourself if you need to.
• Report any changes in your breasts to your physician, even if you think it’s minor.
• Remind your friends and family members to do their self exams, too!

Throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Babeland is donating 20% of every sale of their Pink October toys to help fund mammograms for women in need.

Pink October is co-sponsored by Cal Exotics, Empowered, Fun Factory, Jimmyjane, and Lover’s Choice.

This post contains affiliate links. No incentive was provided and opinions are my own.